Ham Radio For Dummies(2nd Ed) by 未知

Author:未知
Format: epub
Published: 0101-01-01T00:00:00+00:00

Figure 10-2: An ARRL radiogram form with a sample message.

Here’s an example of an NCS directing an off-frequency message exchange during an emergency communications net that’s using a repeater. In this exchange, traffic means a single message, and EOC stands for emergency operations center.

W2---: I have one piece of traffic for the EOC.

(W2--- is either relaying the message from another ham or serving as the originating station.)

NCS: W2---, stand by. EOC, can you accept traffic?

(The net is practicing the use of tactical call signs along with the FCC-issued call signs.)

EOC: EOC is ready for traffic.

NCS: W2--- and EOC, move to the primary simplex frequency and pass the traffic.

This transmission means that W2--- and the station at the EOC are to leave the net frequency, change to the team’s primary simplex (no repeater) frequency, and reestablish contact, after which W2--- transmits the message to the EOC. When both stations are done, they return to the net frequency and report to the NCS.

As a control operator, you still have to give your FCC call sign along with the tactical call sign whenever you begin operation, every ten minutes during operation, and whenever the operator changes. Your emcomm team will provide training to help you satisfy these simple rules.

Handling Traffic

The National Traffic System (NTS; www.arrl.org/nts), managed by the ARRL Field Organization, is the backbone of all amateur message handling in North America. The NTS runs every day, during emergencies and normal times alike. Traffic handling is less popular an activity than it was in years past, but it builds skilled and accurate operating techniques, making you ready for any emergency.

Why, in this age of wireless networks and coast-to-coast links, does traffic handling still exist? The main reason is that when all else fails — and sophisticated communications systems such as mobile phones and the Internet can fail quickly during a disaster or emergency — ham radio traffic handlers fill the gap in an accurate, accountable way until those faster systems are brought back online. Under such circumstances, large numbers of simple text messages must be sent quickly and reliably. Health-and-welfare messages stream out of the afflicted areas until more-sophisticated systems are brought in or restored. Even when digital modes are used to send the message, radiograms (refer to Figure 10-2, earlier in this chapter) are employed to make the process accountable and traceable, as good emergency management requires.

Traffic handling is supposed to work in an emergency, when the chips are down and only the barest minimum of resources may exist.

The ARRL Operating Manual (www.arrl.org/shop/operating) has an extensive chapter on handling traffic procedures and jargon.

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